Knowing where you stand: Neoliberal and other foundations for social work

Abstract

The neoliberal philosophy that presently dominates social work in America is often accepted by social workers without question; and when it does come into focus, it is commonly treated as the only perspective that could make sense or be ethical. But in fact every philosophy, including neoliberalism, sometimes calls for tough judgments and requires unpleasant commitments. Many social workers may find that an eclectic and dispassionate but informed approach works best in practice. This article provides thumbnail sketches and cross-comparisons among some of the most commonly mentioned political philosophies, so as to help social workers interpret dialogues, understand clients’ views, and identify potentially divergent threads in their own political orientations.

Keywords:

• philosophies
• politics
• liberal
• conservative
• dialogue

Notes

1. Blanc's translator offers the formulation: “[E]ach worker should receive according to his needs and contribute according to his abilities” (1840/1911, p. 7). Anonymous (2008) quotes Blanc as saying “Let each produce according to his aptitudes … let each consume according to his need.” It does not appear that either such phrasing, or anything resembling it, appears in Blanc's text. To the contrary, as the translator notes (Anonymous, 2008, p. 51), Blanc eventually dropped even the proposal that each worker receive equal wages, never mind taking only what he needed. It thus remains unclear whether Blanc himself originated the sentiment.